Modelling forest ecosystem dynamics using Multitemporal Multispectral Scanner (MSS) data

Journal Article · Tue Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1994 · Advances in Space Research; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0273-1177(94)90227-5· OSTI ID:6708297

Jarvis, C ^[1]

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1. Center for Space and Advanced Tech., Fairfax, VA (United States)

An empirical model of forest succession was developed using Multitemporal Multispectral Scanner (MSS) data. Images from 1976 and 1987 were classified and registered to assess vegetation change. Data were analyzed to determine the proportion of each landscape class that changed, and these proportions were used to develop a Markov Model. The simulation model was run to produce forest cover for 99 years. MSS data were classified into six classes with an overall accuracy of 93 STET. The landscape composition remained relatively constant, but over half the individual units changed, indicating a dynamic equilibrium. Results of the Markov model show a theoretical climax community that stabilized rapidly. Over 60 STET of the area was composed of conifer, supporting the concept of a conifer dominated climax. However, continuous levels of other classes were maintained, indicating an inherently heterogeneous landscape.

• OSTI ID: 6708297
• Journal Information: Advances in Space Research; (United States), Journal Name: Advances in Space Research; (United States) Vol. 14:3; ISSN ASRSDW; ISSN 0273-1177
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
540210* -- Environment
Terrestrial-- Basic Studies-- (1990-)
COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION
ECOSYSTEMS
FORESTS
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
REMOTE SENSING
SIMULATION